Latest News in Boston, MA

Former resident sues Gabriel House for negligence after deadly Fall River fire

A former resident of Gabriel House Assisted Living Facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, is suing the facility's owner for negligence following a deadly fire that killed ten residents. The lawsuit claims unsafe conditions and inadequate emergency procedures contributed to the tragedy that occurred on July 13. Governor Maura Healey and local officials are scheduled to address the media regarding the ongoing investigation.

Mayor Wu Announces New North End, West End and Wharf District Neighborhood Liaison

Mayor Michelle Wu appointed Maria Perez as the new Neighborhood Liaison for the North End, West End, and Wharf District. Perez, a third-generation resident, aims to enhance community engagement and accessibility to city services. She has a strong background in public service and youth advocacy.

State house debates bill that would ban cannabis ads across Massachusetts

Massachusetts lawmakers consider a bill to ban cannabis advertisements. Advocates argue that the ban could reduce serious health issues, like psychosis, among young people. Currently, cannabis ads are permitted if 85 percent of viewers are 21 or older.

Judge hears from Mass. communities over request to intervene in trash collectors strike

Six Massachusetts communities filed a complaint against Republic Services in Salem Superior Court, seeking a more effective trash collection method amid an ongoing strike. Residents claim the strike has created public health issues due to overflowing trash and inconsistent pickups. A judge questioned the effectiveness of the injunction given the company's assertion of near-normal service.

Southwick's Zoo blames Skyfari ride malfunction on safety system

A mechanical issue stranded 32 guests on the Skyfari Sky Ride at Southwick's Zoo in Mendon, Massachusetts, on Monday. The ride's safety system activated, halting the gondolas, but all guests were safely rescued within an hour. Zoo officials confirmed that the issue was not detectable during routine inspections.

Karen Read grand juror who leaked information to appear in court

Jessica Leslie, a former grand juror in the Karen Read case, faces federal court Tuesday for disclosing confidential grand jury information. She agreed to plead guilty to criminal contempt, receiving a one-day sentence and 24 months of supervised release. The case gained attention after Read's acquittal in the 2022 death of her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe.

Copps Hill Burying Ground recognized with 2025 Preservation Achievement Award

Copp’s Hill Burying Ground received the 2025 Preservation Achievement Award from the Boston Preservation Alliance for its restoration efforts. The project, spanning from 2018 to 2024, conserved approximately 300 gravestones and restored over 1,000 markers, ensuring the site remains a vital historical resource.

Bill seeks to let Massachusetts campers, students use sunscreen

Massachusetts students must obtain a doctor's note to use sunscreen at schools and summer camps. Parents and dermatologists advocate for new legislation to eliminate these restrictions, citing the increased risk of skin cancer from sun exposure. The proposed bills aim to allow students to carry and apply sunscreen without excessive barriers.

Ambulance with patient inside, truck collide in Boston's Franklin Park

Four individuals, including two EMTs and a patient, sustained injuries in a collision involving an ambulance and another vehicle in Boston's Franklin Park on Tuesday morning. The accident occurred around 9:40 a.m., and all injured parties received treatment at a hospital for minor injuries.

Firefighters seen evacuating passengers from Skyfari ride at Mendon's Southwick's Zoo

Firefighters evacuated over 30 passengers from a stalled aerial ride at Southwick's Zoo in Mendon, Massachusetts, on Monday. The ride, which offers views of zoo exhibits, was halted due to an unexpected issue, prompting a swift response from local fire officials. Five passengers had to be rescued from difficult-to-access areas, with one grandparent calling 911 for assistance.